Washing away porcelain

One technique to bring relief into your work is to wash away porcelain. You can use shellac, cold wax or acrylic medium to apply a drawing.
Picture of Nele Ostyn
Nele Ostyn

Forever learning.

From 2D to 3D: a little relief instantly lifts any clay piece to a higher level.

Moreover, if that piece is made of porcelain, you can also play with the translucency of the clay. In this way, you quickly go from workpiece to work of art! One way to add relief is to wash away clay.

Want to learn how?

  • First apply your drawing with acrylic medium diluted with water. You can also use cold wax or shellac.
  • Be sure to firm up the edges and base of your piece by applying your acrylic medium there as well.
  • Then take a wet sponge and gently rub the areas between and around your drawing. This way, little by little, you will wash away the clay and create a delicate relief effect.
  • Just be careful not to wash away too much clay!

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